Get a free moving quote

Tick here to receive valuable discounts, news and marketing information from us by email

Crown Relocations (“Crown”) will keep your information private. We will use the information you provide to deliver and follow up on the service you have requested, and to measure and improve how we serve you. Your information will only be disclosed to Crown, its affiliates, and companies working on behalf of Crown. By submitting this form you are agreeing to this. For more information see our Privacy Policy.

What are the top factors to keep in mind when searching for a place to live in your city?

The Greater Montreal area has always been a haven for those wishing to rent an apartment, since it offers a wide range of prices and architectural styles. Moreover, housing prices are quite affordable in Montreal compared to other major Canadian Cities such as Toronto, Calgary or Vancouver. Vacancy rate statistics also reveal that it is easier to find housing in Montreal than in Toronto and Vancouver, in particular.

Additionally, when searching for a place to live, some important factors to consider are safety, location preference and individual needs. Depending on your preferences, you may want to find a place close to work, school, shops, medical facilities and most importantly an area that is secure and safe. Choosing the right place to live is essential to having a pleasant and safe stay in Montreal.↑ Top

What are the most popular neighborhoods in your city for expats?

On the island of Montreal, the most popular areas include:

CITY CENTER is mostly comprised of apartments with a full spectrum of prices, ranging from inexpensive to luxurious. There are also lofts on St-Laurent Boulevard and Sherbrooke Street.

OLD MONTREAL has mostly up market lofts in old and historic buildings, and it is widely considered one of the most interesting parts of Montreal.

PLATEAU MONT-ROYAL features many apartments in a mostly French speaking sector. It is within walking distance of nice restaurants, cafés and terraces/patios.

WESTMOUNT consists of multi-storey houses which tend to be expensive. These homes are concentrated around the Mount Royal.

AHUNTSIC is a very nice family area with nice houses and duplexes, multi -family homes close to parks, schools and services, it is just off the center area

WEST ISLAND (Dollard Des Ormeaux (DDO), Dorval, Beaconsfield, Kirkland and Lakeshore areas). With many local amenities and services, these areas are suitable for families and feature many townhouses and houses. They are in a mostly Anglophone sector, also off the center area. This is the most bilingual community in Canada located in the western sector of the island of Montreal

Popular neighborhoods off the island of Montreal include:

NORTH SHORE (Laval area) offers a great variety of housing and some distance from the bustle of the city center. Close to most services, parks and schools.

SOUTH SHORE (Longueil, St-Hubert, Brossard) areas also offer a great variety of housing. Located a short distance from the city center, these neighborhoods are quite peaceful are family oriented and close to amenities. Additionally, they are close to most services, parks and schools.

Expats normally rent their homes if their stays are short in duration. However, many who plan to stay for a longer time choose to purchase their homes.↑ Top

Typically, will I be required to pay additional money up front (such as a deposit) before moving into leased housing? If so, how much is common?

You will be expected to pay only first month's rent up front. Your lease will clearly state the cost of rent per month, along with whether or not this includes your utilities. The lease also states the length of the occupancy in the property (generally one year), how payment is to be made each month, which appliances are included (if any) and whether or not parking is included.↑ Top

Are utilities generally included in the price of rent, or are they extra?

That depends. When renting a house, utilities are not typically included in your tenant contract. However, in condominiums and apartments, some utilities are included. Ask your landlord for more details.↑ Top

Are there special security concerns I should be aware of in regards to my home or choice of neighborhood?

Most homes come equipped with efficient security features such as door locks, bolts and security alarm services. Many areas also have neighborhood watch programs that allow neighbors to report any suspicious activity to authorities.↑ Top

I’m not sure if I should bring my appliances. What is the electric current, Hz and plug shape in your city?

The electric current in Canada is 120/240 volts. The electrical Hertz (Hz) is 60.

Below are examples of the types of plugs that are used in Canada:

Type A - Flat blade attachment plug

Note: In the U.S. & Canada, two-blade plugs are often polarized, with one blade larger than the other. Most outlets are designed to handle these. The larger blade is the neutral side of the current. This is a safety feature intended so the plug can be inserted one way only to reduce the chance of accidental shock. If you try to plug a modern plug into an old-style receptacle for equal size blades, it won't go in unless you file down the larger blade to the older plug size.

Outside the US, many countries with Type A use the old style plug, and a newer US plug with unequal pins might pose a problem. This can be bypassed using an adaptor (found in many travel kits) which converts the newer Type A plug to the older model with equal-sized blades. Be aware, though, that you might also be bypassing the protection that polarization provides.

If you are interested in a particular property, you will be required to complete a preliminary application. At that time, you may be asked to include a letter of employment from your current place of employment on company letterhead. This should indicate your salary, job status and length of employment. In addition, you may also be required to provide a letter of reference from a former landlord stating something to the effect that you paid your rent on time and were a reliable tenant. You may also be required to provide your Social Insurance Number for credit reference, along with personal reference numbers.↑ Top

IMPORTANT NOTE:
Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Should you have any questions or need additional information, please contact your local Crown representative.

Newsletter sign-up

Get the latest moving tips, destination highlights and news from the team.

Name

Email

Crown Relocations (“Crown”) will keep your information private. We will use the information you provide to deliver and follow up on the service you have requested, and to measure and improve how we serve you. Your information will only be disclosed to Crown, its affiliates, and companies working on behalf of Crown. By submitting this form you are agreeing to this. For more information see our Privacy Policy.